G-body G Machine –*1983 Buick Regal –*LS3 E-Rod

[Middle Out Media]

Hey Guys,

Here is a long overdue introduction to my project, a 1983 Buick Regal T-type, that was inspired by many of the projects I saw right here on Pro-Touring.com. It was donated to me [by a loyal reader] when I was Editor of GM High-Tech Performance magazine to build up in the magazine. The car came from Pennsylvania, and had been a daily driver for many years. It had over 200k on the clock and had since been sitting in the previous owner's yard. As you can imagine, rust was pervasive. It was stock as a rock, including the hot-air turbo V-6. Since I grew up in Medford, NJ I immediately thought of the Burlington County Institute of Technology as the perfect location for the build. The crew had been building and drag racing a third-gen Camaro at Atco Raceway for years as a teaching tool that would also capture the students' attention. I had hoped to do the same with the Buick, and the school agreed. In addition, the plan was to take the car to a few tracks when it was done including nearby NJ Motorsports Park and Atco Raceway, and to the Holley LS Fest, before selling it and sharing the proceeds with charity.

Unfortunately GM High-Tech Performance was among 12 magazines killed during the latest restructuring at Source Interlink Media (now The Enthusiast Network). As I am awaiting the fate of its remaining edit, I thought I'd share the progress of the build and show where we left off (click the titles for the full stories).

Project Introduction and Frame Restoration (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/ghtp-1201-1983-t-type-teardown-humble-beginnings/)
The full frame G-body chassis gave GMHTP a unique opportunity to create a pro touring build that would keep up with the modern machines (C5/C6 Corvettes, fourth- and fifth-gen F-bodies) it is used to driving on a road course.

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LS3 E-ROD Conversion (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/ghtp-1208-ls3-e-rod-for-83-buick-ls-wonderment/)
Though many would have liked to see us convert the T-type to an EFI turbo V-6, we decided to go with a reliable and proven combo that was 50-state emissions legal. It had the side benefit of being welcome at events such as the Holley LS Fest, and gave us a chance to demonstrate how to convert the G-body – a prime candidate for an LS swap given the price, availability of junkyard LS engines, and performance.

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Detroit Speed Suspension (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/chassis-suspension/ghtp-1202-g-body-suspension-setup-star-of-the-show/)
Since we were sticking with the stock frame, DSE was a no-brainer to partner with on this build. They have a complete front to rear kit built for the autocross and road course. Plus they have a boat load of steering and other upgrades we hoped to use later in the build.

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Rust Repair & More Rust Repair (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/paint-body/1309-1983-buick-regal-t-metal-work/)
As I said, this thing was rusty. If this car wasn't donated, we would have found a better body to start. Matter of fact, the donor car, acquired from a scrapyard, was probably in better shape. All new floors and a roll bar from Competition Engineering were among much of the metal work.

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Custom Wheel/Tire Setup from Grip Equipped (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/wheels-tires/1405-how-to-order-custom-wheels-for-your-g-body/)
One of the biggest issues with G-bodies is getting a big enough wheel/tire combo. Many people told us an 8 or 9-inch wide wheels was about the best we could do without chopping the frame. Well thankfully that wasn't the case, thanks to a custom set of wheels. And let's be honest, wheels can make or break a car. We think these make Project G Machine. [More on the wheels here. (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/wheels-tires/1311-buick-regal-erod-g-machine-grip-equipped-wheels/)]

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Wilwood Brakes (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/1411-1983-buick-regal-project-g-machine-front-brakes/)
The Wilwood brake install kicked off at the front-end with a set of Superlite 6R 6-piston calipers and 12.88-inch, 2-piece rotors. The front drums will also be ditched for Wilwoods as well, once the rear end is sorted out.

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Eastwood Paint (http://www.superchevy.com/news/1983-buick-regal-project/)
For a bunch of high school kids, this paint job looks slick...and rest assured that if they can do it, you can, too. Now this isn't the full story, but merely an update with what we had planned for edit. Like the fender flares, those bumper fillers are from G Body Parts, in case anyone is wondering.

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Rear?
We got our hands on an 8.8-inch Ford rear to save a few bucks. Nearest we can tell, this budget swap had not been pulled off in print before, though we've seen a few on various forums. It's not exactly a bolt-in swap, and swap kits have come and gone. But we found a great solution. I'll update you on this story once we know the fate of the project.

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-Scott

[73GA]

Hey Scott, I am so happy to see you pick up the project here! I was following this build intently in GMHTP and then the news of SI's unfortunate restructure came out. The cruel twist of irony is that GMHTP, Camaro Performers, PHR, and Chevy HP were my favourites out of SI. Strangely enough, I'm not a Chevy guy, but those publications had the in depth tech and quality vehicles I appreciate the most. There was always something in those mags I could take away and apply to my vehicles. I have an 81 Pontiac Grand Prix that I am ticking away on. I just completed swapping a mild 455 and turbo 400 into the car, have upgraded to Eibach springs, Bilstien shocks, and DSE bars, and am about to mount Year One 17x8 front and 17x9" rear Ralley II reproduction wheels. Like you, I have also picked up a Mustang 8.8" and have ordered up the Trick Chassis G-body 8.8 swap kit with Adjustable UCA's and instant Center correction boxes, as well as UPR spherical bushings. I am super stoked about following your build here on PT. BTW, those wheels are gorgeous and retain the design elements of the GN wheels perfectly. Please keep the build thread stories and pics coming because I'm subscribed! Cheers.

[Middle Out Media]

Excellent! Yes, we were planning to run a very similar setup with the 8.8-inch swap.

[Alexhamilton]

I have hundreds of hours of work into the body and paint on this car. I've spent the past 5 months on my own doing body work & paint work on it. I am very satisfied with how it came out. I am Alex Hamilton, head of the body/paint work on this project. 97850

[Middle Out Media]

Hi Alex! Thanks for all the hard work! I hear a lot of talk about the work ethic of younger generation, blah, blah, blah... Maybe these people need to meet you!

[Alexhamilton]

No problem scott, it was a pleasure working on it. I used to own a 87 regal t-type a few years back.

[Alexhamilton]

Heres a few more pics of the buick

[EastEnder]

Love the build, Scott! I wish I kept my '85 v6 (only had 52k on her as of Jan 2012!) I like the color a lot too! Did you pick it out or the students?

Sorry to hear about the magazine. I just suscribed last year and was really getting into it. Whats happening to you and the rest all of the staff of GMHTP? Where you guys all let go? Did this co incede with SI switching around editiors at Car Craft and Hot Rod? I'm wondering where a lot of those folks (like Doug Glad, Jesse Kiser, and Diego Rosenberg) wound up in the shuffle.

[Middle Out Media]

Thanks! I picked that color...always wanted an orange car.

The Tampa office is closed (as per round two of restructuring), and almost all of the staff was laid off including basically anyone associated with GMHTP. I don't know of any switching around of editors at Car Craft and Hot Rod. Staff on both magazines were let go on the first go-round, including two of the three you mentioned. Doug Glad is still on Car Craft.

[qnitro]

Man, I hate that GM high tech was killed.. I have been a subscriber since they started in the 90's...it's a great mag dedicated to high tech GM cars.. I don't subscribe to Hotrod/car craft and such because they have an tendency to be old school.. I'm sorry for the lays offs.. I'm hoping someone else picks this Mattel up and starts a new GM high tech performance mag much like the original

[EastEnder]

Wow sorry to hear about all of that good talent, including yourself laid off.

Are you freelancing now and back in Jersey or did you just have the car shipped up from Tampa?

Cant wait to see more updates.

[Middle Out Media]

I've been so busy lately I completely forgot to make some updates.

#1 You can expect a few stories to come at BANGshift.com (http://bangshift.com/). I've known Brian and Chad for a while, and love what they've been doing. We'll be doing the aforementioned rear and manual trans swap.

#2 As for the rear story, I'll be working with Strange Engineering and Wilwood. Parts just arrived, so as soon as school is back in session they'll be right on it.

We'll be running Strange's custom axles and 9-inch ends for several reasons:
-Drilling a GM bolt pattern into stock axles isn't the safest idea, especially if you plan on hitting top speed at Road Atlanta
-Getting a custom axle for a C-clip rear wasn't an option
-C-clips are also not terribly safe, and not recommended for racing
-9" ends have a much better bearing setup
-9" ends allow you to run a fixed brake caliper without pad knock-back

Though it takes away from the budget aspect of this rear swap, it is safe and it is still about half the cost of a 9-inch or 12-bolt with all the parts (diff, gears, axles, brakes). Hopefully you guys enjoy. Here are a few pics and links:


Strange 9-inch ends (http://www.strangeengineering.net/dragrace/housings-components/housing-ends-t-bolts-tubing-gaskets/late-big-ford-housing-ends-pr.html)

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Wilwood Superlite 4R Rear Brake (with parking brake) (http://www.wilwood.com/BrakeKits/BrakeKitsProdRear.aspx?itemno=140-9219-DR)

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[CruizinKev]

looks great so far! LS3 G-Bodys FTW! :1st: :twothumbs

[Middle Out Media]

Thanks Kevin! Love your build, too. '78-'79 Montes are probably my favorite G-body. I didn't know someone sold those 4-speed clutch/brake pedals (http://www.gsi-interiorss.com/item/transmission-manual-transmissi/monte-carlo-ss-el-camino-clutc/lid=40234047). I thought I'd have to scour eBay for a set. I'm glad you posted about them. I'm curious how that setup is going to work with the hydraulics. Otherwise it looks to bolt right in.

[Middle Out Media]

As it turns out the clutch pedal market is getting quite competitive. GSI has a complete plug and play hydraulic setup on the way in addition to the current, and then there is the John B setup and SickSpeed. Not sure what direction we will go just yet, most likely one of the three with upgraded hydraulics.

On a side note, the frame is pretty flimsy on these cars.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6OzNj1WSOo

Had we originally planned to go this far an aftermarket chassis would have been preferable. Our solution is going to be lateral support. GNS Performance hooked us up with these to mount a crossbar in the rear:
(http://www.gnsperformance.com/#!bodyframe-g-body/c15ae)
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[SSLance]

Not sure what direction we will go just yet, most likely one of the three with upgraded hydraulics.


Just curious, why do you want to do upgraded hydraulics?

I run a replacement F-body clutch master from Rock Auto with my SickSpeed pedal and it performs flawlessly.

[Middle Out Media]

Good question, and I will definitely keep that in mind. Generally I prefer stock parts whenever possible and try to keep it simple (to avoid issues). But I've had numerous issues over the years on other cars with T56s –*not going into gear at high RPM, clutch pedal sticking to the floor, etc. And most decisions on this car made it more of a track car you can drive on the street, rather than the other way around. So it's not like this is just a driver and weekend cruiser.

[Jkey]

Just curious what is the offset/ back spacing on your wheels?

[Middle Out Media]

3.5-inches in the front and 4-inches in the rear.

http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/wheels-tires/1405-how-to-order-custom-wheels-for-your-g-body/

[LS1-IROC]

Glad to see this project is going forward. Loved the coverage it had in GMHTP. Good luck with it. The wheels are absolute killer!

[Middle Out Media]

Thanks! You're not looking too bad yourself!

[howehot]

As it turns out the clutch pedal market is getting quite competitive. GSI has a complete plug and play hydraulic setup on the way in addition to the current, and then there is the John B setup and SickSpeed. Not sure what direction we will go just yet, most likely one of the three with upgraded hydraulics.

On a side note, the frame is pretty flimsy on these cars.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6OzNj1WSOo

Had we originally planned to go this far an aftermarket chassis would have been preferable. Our solution is going to be lateral support. GNS Performance hooked us up with these to mount a crossbar in the rear:
(http://www.gnsperformance.com/#!bodyframe-g-body/c15ae)
https://www.pro-touring.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=101694&stc=1

The video is actually my old chassis and it's replacement. Not much backbone to them with the body.

I have the SickSpeed clutch setup with a tick master and it is fantastic and will be duplicated on our El Camino build. I would stay away from GSI as he still owes me for a botched interior job he did. The SickSpeed is smooth and the bracket reinforces and corrects the angle of the master.

[Middle Out Media]

Good to know, Mr. Howe. It was nice meeting you in ATL last year (I was in the black 2012 Camaro SS).

[Number1]

Any updates on the rear? Also what vehicle did you get it from? I've heard explorers & mustangs.

[Middle Out Media]

We went with the Fox-body Mustang rear, which came with a solid Traction Loc and a near perfect width. All parts are now in hand, including some trick upper control arms that make the swap possible. As soon as school is back in session there should be more progress.

[Middle Out Media]

School is back in session, and there should be more updates coming soon. We went with the Baseline Suspension swap kit for the UCA's. (http://www.baselinesuspensions.com/kits/chevy.htm) Now we just need to weld on those 9-inch ends and install the axles.

[RARperformance]

Looking forward to this build!

[Middle Out Media]

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[Middle Out Media]

Any updates on the rear? Also what vehicle did you get it from? I've heard explorers & mustangs.

FYI I have a story coming out in Car Craft with general 8.8-in. conversion info. It includes some of the lessons we learned on this project. The school is currently building a fixture to weld on the 9-in. ends. Ultimately I might need to go with a shorter shock or a coilover (http://www.detroitspeed.com/1978-1988-G-Body-Products/042420-rear-coilover-kit.html).

[Number1]

Any updates on the story or how the install went?

[Middle Out Media]

Not since the last unfortunately... Hopefully they will be finished welding on the 9-inch ends soon. It's a pretty involved process since you have to create a fixture to do it (if you haven't already). As you can see from the shot above, the rear was in the car and the conversion aspect is finished. The only hiccup is the shock length. I noticed Bulldawg sells its 8.8's for coilover conversions. I assumed it was just convenience...

[Number1]

Loved the 8.8 rearend article. Any updates on how the fixture is going to weld the 9 inch ends? I need to send mine up there next to get done.

[Eddie Motorsports]

Sweet build!

[Middle Out Media]

No word yet... I was planning to stop by while I am up north for the holidays to take a peak.

FYI for everyone else: the full story will be on BangShift.com, but I did an overview of how to swap an 8.8" for Car Craft (which is now online).

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/paint-body/1412-how-to-swap-ford-rear-into-a-gm-g-body/

[Middle Out Media]

I stopped in yesterday and it looked like Christmas came early. We've got a bunch of T56 swap parts from American Powertrain, and AntiVenom is going to build us a T56 with a few upgrades (from AP). Once the driveline is finished we'll measure and order a driveshaft, then on to the fuel system, cooling system, and interior. Initial thoughts on those:

1) Fuel system- Rick's Tanks setup with a Camaro pump or a stock tank with a Holley HydraMat/pump
2) Cooling system- considering some other OEM options (LT1 F-body?) or aftermarket such Flex-a-lite radiator/fans
3) Interior- I had originally thought about adapting an 04-06 GTO seat, but we're pretty tight against the roll bar. So some sort of race seat I think is a must.

[Middle Out Media]

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[howehot]

This piece will make your clutch master arrangement a whole lot easier. Uses any master from an F body.

http://www.sickspeedmonte.com/Clutch.html

Also, why not stick with a factory EFI tank, pump, and sender. Easy solution to EFI and I have had zero issues on the road courses.

[Middle Out Media]

I know there are a few options out there...we are working with American Powertrain, using its master/pedal assembly. An aftermarket master might be overkill on this car, but I speak from personal experience when I say that the stock piece can have its limit/issues. Hopefully this is a viable option for some.

That's great to know on the stock EFI tank. I had originally planned to use a stock tank and Racetronix 255lph pump/harness just like on a '86-'87 GN. I will definitely consider that again as a third option. The Hydramat, though, would be added insurance... My reasoning is that I've seen fuel starvation issues on late model cars (with aftermarket pumps) like SN95 Mustangs, so I wouldn't think an '83 Buick is immune.

[Number1]

Is the rearend going to be stock length or did you have it shortened? Also any updates or more pics?

[Middle Out Media]

Is the rearend going to be stock length or did you have it shortened? Also any updates or more pics?

Stock length. The rear is all welded up now, and they are in the process of installing all the bearings and seals. I should have pictures soon. The clutch disc, pressure plate, and master cylinder from American Powertrain were installed as well. AP is supplying some rebuild parts for an F-body T56 that I picked up. AntiVenom is going to put it together.

[Number1]

Is that g-body or fox body stock length? Also can you give more information or explain it more on how the fixture needs to be made?

[Middle Out Media]

Fox-body. I'll share what I can here when I have that info. However, this will definitely be in the Bangshift story in full detail.

[Justin@EntropyRad]

serious creativity in this thing

[Middle Out Media]

The rear end is now in the car. Take a look. Once I finish the paint story for Car Craft, we will get back to the transmission and get it shipped off while I work on the story for Bangshift on the rear.

[Blue70]

Looking good!!

I have a soft spot for G-Bodys having owned quite a few of them in the past

[Justin@EntropyRad]

I'd drive it!

[Middle Out Media]

Thanks for all the positive comments, guys!

[carguykeith]

Nice build! A word of warning though, even with 9" ends welded on you can have pad knock-back issues unless you run floating calipers. Easy way to remember is: floating axles or floating calipers, otherwise pad knock-back...

I like the 8.8 since these 8.5 10-bolts are getting so hard to find, good ingenuity. If I were to do it all again I'd just go straight to a fabricated 9" full floater, they make them for the circle track crowd and a complete housing with axles is less than $1k.

[LS1-IROC]

Nice Scott! It's looking great!

[Middle Out Media]

Nice build! A word of warning though, even with 9" ends welded on you can have pad knock-back issues unless you run floating calipers. Easy way to remember is: floating axles or floating calipers, otherwise pad knock-back...

I like the 8.8 since these 8.5 10-bolts are getting so hard to find, good ingenuity. If I were to do it all again I'd just go straight to a fabricated 9" full floater, they make them for the circle track crowd and a complete housing with axles is less than $1k.

A full floater is the way to go, but between eliminating the C-clips and the better bearings, the 9-inch ends are pretty safe.

[Middle Out Media]

Is that g-body or fox body stock length? Also can you give more information or explain it more on how the fixture needs to be made?

Btw, here is some good info I found:

Story in Hot Rod- http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/transmission-drivetrain/ccrp-0801-rear-axle-modifications/

Chris Alston fixture- https://www.cachassisworks.com/p-472-rearend-narrowing-jig.aspx

Home-made fixture on YB- http://www.yellowbullet.com/forum/showthread.php?t=288249&page=3

[Middle Out Media]

Just wanted to share the Bangshift.com story on the 8.8" swap... There weren't as many pics of the fixture as I had hoped, but I would see those previous links for more info on that. Next we'll be building a T56 with American Powertrain components, and shipping it off to NJ for the install.

http://bangshift.com/bangshiftapex/g-body-8-8-swap-something-strange-happening-rear-like-axle-tech-can-use/

[Middle Out Media]

Another update: Car Craft is going to be running the paint story we did back when it was still a GMHTP project. We used GBodyParts.com GNX fender flares, bumper fillers, and Eastwood paint. Here is a shot of the finished product out in the sun.

[Middle Out Media]

All the chrome has been cleaned up and installed (temporarily). I just ordered all new weatherstripping from GBodyParts.com, which the shop will install while they are waiting on the trans. The fuel system is on order, as is the rest of what we need to complete the new gauge cluster.

[Middle Out Media]

The Car Craft story is now online!

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/paint-body/1502-freshening-up-an-1983-buick-regal-with-new-bumper-fillers-and-a-little-flare/

[deejai35]

Awesome build! Nice work on the color and huge tire fitment. My mom had an '83 Regal when I was growing up. This is not my mom's Buick!

[Middle Out Media]

Thanks! Hopefully we can get this trans built soon, and get it back to the shop.

[7xg-body]

I like that color...

[7xg-body]

Whats the tire/wheel combo size?

[Middle Out Media]

Grip Equipped Rebel 18x9.5 front, 18x12 rear. (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/wheels-tires/1311-buick-regal-erod-g-machine-grip-equipped-wheels/) The tires are Falken Azenis 275/35ZR18 front, 315/30ZR18 rear. (http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/wheels-tires/1405-how-to-order-custom-wheels-for-your-g-body/) Btw, I wanted to give another shout-out to GBodyParts.com for supplying the GNX fender flares to fit those bad boys. Every piece we've needed to restore the rusted out body has come from them, including a ton of new weatherstripping. And they are also helping us convert the fuel system to EFI. More on that later. If you have any style of G-body, I'd give them a call. They just came out with a whole bunch of new metal including inner fenderwells and inside rocker panels (stuff that typically rots out).

[Middle Out Media]

The shop just sent this pic of the Dakota Digital Dash fully operational.



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[Number1]

Any updates?

[Middle Out Media]

We are waiting on a new mid-plate for the T56. The core I am using is damaged and these old T56 parts are getting hard to come by. American Powertrain suggests using a Magnum and not dealing with this mess, which is a very valid argument if you can't purchase replacement parts like gears.

[Middle Out Media]

Here is one other update, the fuel system arrived from GBodyParts.com as well as this slick fuel pump from Deatchwerks. I went with the 340lph pump (9-301-1000) in case we switch to E85 or add boost at some point. I am going to forgo the Hydramat for now until we get it on the road and drive it.

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[Number1]

Any updates?

[alphaenvirmgt]

Scott,
Any chance you will get to work on ProTouring magazine? Found inaugural issue in Target a couple of weeks ago!

[Middle Out Media]

No updates unfortunately. The school has been off for the Summer, and I am still locating a mid-plate for the T56 to build it. Side note: I was flipping through Circle Track magazine yesterday and saw an ad for Quick Performance. They offer full floater 9" G-body rears that are really reasonable. Anyone used them before?

I haven't looked into writing for Pro Touring since I've been so busy lately, but wouldn't rule it out.

[Middle Out Media]

We finally got the new mid-plate, which interestingly has some updates from the original T56 (sort of like the 6060 but not integral to the bellhousing). It had been out of production and I guess that is why. Hopefully Tremec does a good run of these and other hard parts, so that other enthusiasts aren't waiting around for months. The backstory on the T56 core is that it cracked the mid-plate and tailhousing as well as bent the shiftrail and input/output shaft when a driveshaft came loose. The driver was actually holding the shifter to keep the trans in. AntiVenom wound up piecing a whole trans together with two transmissions and some spare parts. Full story to come on BangShift.com.

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Video overview of parts/rebuild:
https://www.facebook.com/MiddleOutMedia/videos/vb.581517405216091/1061495797218247/?type=2&theater

[Middle Out Media]

Sorry, I have been slacking. The T56 is built and en route to the shop. Got a pretty good deal on freight shipping actually... Anyways, the T56 rebuild story is live on Bangshift.com right here. (http://bangshift.com/general-news/tech-stories/transmission-tech-we-take-two-junk-t56-transmissions-spare-parts-and-new-pieces-from-american-powertrain-to-make-one/) Big thanks to American Powertrain (http://americanpowertrain.com/) and AntiVenom (http://antivenomefi.com/)!

[Middle Out Media]

Here she is, along with a few of the broken pieces that came out of the core(s).

[Middle Out Media]

Sorry, still no updates. There were some shipping issues getting the trans to NJ and then we had a few of the wrong parts. Hopefully everything is straightened out now. The dash and cooling/fuel system are done, and I am waiting on those pics to do the last story for Car Craft. The trans install will be on Bangshift.com as Part 2 of the previous story as well as (hopefully) the conclusion of the build. Speaking of which, anyone have any ideas as to a center console or some way to dress up the shifter?

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[Number1]

Any updates?

[Middle Out Media]

Lots of false starts and wheel-spinning... It looks like the pedal we had will not work since the master cylinder has to be relocated. We are going with the SSM pedal now. The trans is in the car (waiting for pics) and we are in the process of ordering a driveshaft now. The fuel system has been done (also waiting on pics which were lost in the mail but recovered) for a while.

[Middle Out Media]

A couple updates:

1) The trans and driveshaft are in. The Driveshaft Shop (http://www.driveshaftshop.com/) hooked us up with this custom aluminum driveshaft to mate to the 8.8's flange and the T56's output.

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2) The fuel system is completely done. We used the DW pump I mentioned along with this '86-87 Grand National tank setup from GBodyParts.com (http://www.gbodyparts.com/product_info.php?cPath=46_21_49&products_id=1186) and fuel lines from Russell Performance (Edelbrock) (http://www.russellperformance.com/mc/hose/proclassic-2.shtml). The tank is baffled and made of Ni-Terne steel, so I shouldn't have a problem with starvation/slosh or durability. And everything is ethanol compatible.

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[Josh@Ridetech]

Looking great!

[Middle Out Media]

Well now comes the big push. The shop teacher, Dave Rushen, is retiring, so we have no choice but to get this done in double-time. As soon as the last parts arrive (clutch pedal/master cylinder), we will just about have the T56 swap done. I am in the process of ordering the last parts for the interior. The carpet was obviously trash and the door panels fell apart when they removed them. I was considering going with black, but not sure. The seats will most likely be black as well, though I could later recover them. The harnesses I may pick up next week. This is an old pic of the interior. We definitely need to replace the steering wheel, too. The plan is to drive the car from NJ to Florida next month.

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[bishir]

Looking forward to more updates.. thanks for sharing!

[Middle Out Media]

The seats and exhaust system are en route. Hopefully the interior will be, too. I am headed to Racequip this afternoon for harnesses.

[Middle Out Media]

Looks like I have something in common with Jay Leno.

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I just picked up these 3-inch, 5-point harnesses from RaceQuip (http://shop.racequip.com/). The plan is to use the factory mounting points for the lap belt, wrap the shoulder belts around the roll bar, and build a bracket for the crotch strap. I got some good pointers from Patrick Utt, owner of RaceQuip, about properly securing the belts (some very common mistakes here) and how to install these without ditching the factory belts. I am not sure whether we will keep them right now, but it is good to have options.

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[SSLance]

If you go to this link, you can see how I incorporated my harnesses to work with my factory belts...I use the 3 points on the street and the 5 points at the track and it works great.

https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/95192-My-1985-Monte-Carlo-SS-Barney/page9

I just had to come up with some special hardened cap head bolts with a longer shoulder to replace the factory bolts. McMaster Carr has them...

[Middle Out Media]

Lookin' good!

Racequip had a whole bunch of extra hardware to install them over the factory belts. I think it is a great idea if you plan on driving your car on the street as you said. I may do that after I get the car back and get some black belts to match the rest of the interior.

[Middle Out Media]

A couple updates... One I made up a logo for the project. I am not a designer, but I needed it for something I am working on and I figured what the heck.

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The clutch pedal/master setup, seats, and exhaust all arrived. The school is making fast progress now.

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[Middle Out Media]

Progress!

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[sik87gn]

Scott,

I live 10 mins away from BCIT and would love to meet up with you and check out the car when you pick it up. Currently working on my 87 Grand National Project myself.

[Middle Out Media]

Sounds good. I should be in town around June 13th or 14th.

[Middle Out Media]

We are short a few parts (that's what happens with this last minute stuff), but it will be in driving shape today and ready for pick-up on Monday. I will have to tidy up the interior when I get it home.

[Number1]

Awesome!!!! Post pictures and videos soon.

[Middle Out Media]

It needs some little things before I can drive it (including a license plate), so that put my east coast drive on hold. I can't wait to get it home and finish it up so I can take it out on the road. The clutch pedal feels great. Pedal effort is like a stock car. Shifter placement is pretty good considering it was never meant for that car. And I couldn't be happier with the pedal placement. I should have no issue with heel-toe downshifting.


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[Middle Out Media]

Two quick notes if someone is attempting to stuff the same size tire/wheel combo.

1) The rearend or backspacing on the wheels I think needs to be in another .5-inch or so per side (even with the GNX flares).
2) The inner front fenders need to be trimmed. At 3/4 to full lock it is definitely rubbing.

Also on the 8.8" rear, I think we might need to switch to the DSE coilovers. The tires rub the fenders with the tiniest little bounce. I have not seen this issue on other G-bodies with 10-bolts. Some companies that do the 8.8" conversion use coilovers instead of welding on spring pads anyways.

[Middle Out Media]

The T56 swap story is up on BangShift.com! Check it out here! (http://bangshift.com/bangshiftapex/bangshift-tech-heres-how-to-install-a-tremec-t56-into-a-g-body)

[Middle Out Media]

Not many updates unfortunately, as I am waiting to ship the car down due to an issue with the title. In the mean time, the gears have been turning. Should I just cover the holes for the hood ornament or switch it up? I saw this old Buick emblem that I thought was cool.

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Also, I am seriously considering swapping in a big-cube LSX engine I have from a previous project after we shake this thing down and work out the bugs. I fired up the Buick once, and already missed the lopey idle of my racecar.

Oh, and one last thing... Check out this billet horn button from Eddie Motorsports with the G Machine logo I designed. I have their steering wheel as well as some other bits that I will share pictures of once the interior is done. That is their shifter ball in the previous pic. They do custom laser engraving and powder coating, so I took advantage of both services.

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[Number1]

Awesome. I love it. Any start up videos?

[Middle Out Media]

Just on Instagram so far. I am "sdp_at_large" or you can just look for "#GMachine." It is pretty quiet with the LS3, cats and 2.5-inch exhaust. Once the car gets here I will definitely have more video. Here is one sans mufflers and body when the engine was first installed.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vPe1M-qEWM

[Middle Out Media]

The rest of the interior parts from GBodyParts.com are on the way. As usual, they had literally everything we needed to complete the black conversion and fill in the missing or broken pieces. We will just need to figure out something with the rear seat delete to clean up that area a bit. AND...we are also working with Quick Trick to show how to do your own alignment. Has anyone used these products before?

https://www.quicktrickalignment.com/shop/quicktricktm-pick-3-wheel-alignment-system-90033/

[Ben@SpeedTech]

Cool project! Nice to see another G body join the ranks. I'm looking forward to hearing about some seat time. You mentioned the rear wheel spacing going in another .5. From working on my car and seeing what others have done seems like 5" of rear spacing is the magic max number without a frame notch. Mine are 5.5 backspace and before the frame notch/minitub barely touched the frame rails with the stock 10 bolt.

Keep up the good work!

[Middle Out Media]

Thank you, sir. This car has GNX fender flares, which got us a bit more room to play with. We went with 4-inches in the rear, but 4.5-in. might have been better...or just narrowing the rear a bit more.

[Middle Out Media]

Of course, a few months after I purchase a Lokar shifter bezel/boot, this comes out:

https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/121765-Billet-Aluminum-Shifter-Bezel-Kits

I will have to put this on the wish list for Phase 2 along with a custom suede shifter boot with orange stitching.

[Middle Out Media]

Anyone used these alignment tools from QuickTrick? Just got a set and we'll be getting the G Machine dialed in shortly. After a few tweaks, we just have to finish the interior and we'll be ready for our first outing.

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[Middle Out Media]

Just back from SEMA and I have two new updates:

1) The interior has been finished for a few weeks now. Story will appear in Car Craft. (Pics to come.)
2) I am moving across the country and need to sell it. If anyone is interested, let me know. I will be posting a few other random things, too, like an LS2 I have.

[Middle Out Media]

In addition to the Summit Racing seats and Racequip harnesses, we did a full black interior conversion using trim paint from GBodyParts.com and AntiVenom built a rear seat delete out of ABS plastic. I picked up some missing interior plastic, including some pretty slick reproduction pieces and matching (complete) door panels, from GBodyParts.com as well. Thankfully the metal pieces that hold the headliner are universal to G-bodies. Thankfully G-body and gear guru Bruce Ponti at AntiVenom helped me track down the hard to find stuff. If you are in the Tampa area and need a ring and pinion installed, Bruce is your guy. He's done multiple rearends for various projects, no noise –*no issues. Anyways, here are some shots.

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[focused313]

how comfortable are those seats?

[Middle Out Media]

They seem to be firm but decent and supportive. I haven't been in them for more than a few minutes at a time.

[Middle Out Media]

Haven't done an update in a while, so it is probably time... Around the first of the year I moved to SoCal (I am now working at Power Automedia). AntiVenom is finishing up a couple small things on the car to finish it up, and then I was going to ship it out here. I have also been thinking about selling it to focus/make space for my other project ('68 GTO).

In the mean time, Car Craft ran the last few stories:

Seats, Safety & Other Interior:
http://www.hotrod.com/articles/installing-racy-g-body-interior-fit-pro-touring/

Cheap Steering Box Upgrade:
http://www.hotrod.com/articles/upgrade-g-body-steering-cheap/

[Middle Out Media]

Took delivery of the Buick from FL (now in SoCal), and just have to tidy up a few things before I can hit the street/track. I am probably going to change the rear wheel back spacing a touch to tuck them in a little better. We have more clearance with the frame rail than originally thought. The grille and bumpers have been bothering me, too... I purchased an '86-87 grille by accident a while back and thinking about swapping the header panel to make it fit along with getting GN headlight buckets for a black accent and fiberglass bumpers (body colored).

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[mc84_zz4]

Great build! Thanks for posting fresh updates, they serve as inspiration..

[Middle Out Media]

I am due for a few updates...

1) After the car sat for some time it had sludge in the gas tank and bad wiring, which effectively killed the fuel pump. More on this soon on www.StreetMusclemag.com.

2) I had hoped to bring the car to Holley LS Fest West but between the fuel pump and a ride height issue in the rear, I was not able to get everything fixed in time. Right now we are working on the latter by swapping out the springs and shocks with coilovers. We will be testing out QA1's new MOD Shocks. I believe this is one of the first sets to go into a G-body. After seeing them last year I couldn't wait to get my hands on them.

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3) Last year I purchased the successor to the G-Machine, another full frame car – a 1968 Pontiac GTO. So this long, strange ride may come to an end soon. I have a new dash for the Buick and a few other things to tidy up first, and of course a little bit of track time to test the coilovers.

https://www.streetmusclemag.com/news/1968-gto-project-pro-touring-street-muscle-project-car-intro/